expectancy

[ ik-spek-tuhn-see ]

noun

, plural ex·pect·an·cies.

1. the quality or state of expecting; expectation; anticipatory belief or desire.
2. the state of being expected.
3. an object of expectation; something expected.

expectancy

/ ɪkˈspɛktənsɪ /

noun

1. something expected, esp on the basis of a norm or average

   his life expectancy was 30 years

2. anticipation; expectation
3. the prospect of a future interest or possession, esp in property

   an estate in expectancy

Word History and Origins

Origin of expectancy¹

From the Medieval Latin word ex(s)pectantia, dating back to 1590–1600. See expectant, -ancy

Example Sentences

And while humanity's life expectancy has increased dramatically in the modern era, we still struggle with the inevitable health issues our bodies face as we get up in the years.

From Science Daily

We have reported how pollution is making people sick and reducing their life expectancy here, here and here.

From BBC

In terms of the overall amount of revenue that ends up in beneficiaries’ pockets, however, “we would not expect observable changes in objective health outcomes or life expectancy.”

From Salon

Longer life expectancies and a rise in older women working, which makes divorce more feasible economically, are helping to drive the trend.

From New York Times

"Offering an FDA-approved drug for off-label use could provide hope and improve both life expectancy and quality of life for these patients."

From Science Daily